Dorcas was a woman who was always doing good things for others. She was an ordinary woman with an extraordinary heart. “In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. She was always doing good works and acts of charity.” Acts 9:36 At the time, Dorcas did not realize the significance of what she was doing. She was just using her talent to be helpful to others. She did not have a great teaching ministry, and was not the leader of a large organization. Instead, she had a sewing ministry to make clothes for the widows living in her town. We might not think much of this ministry, but to the widows of that day, she was a life saver. We forget that in those days there was no retirement income, no social security, and no welfare services. The older women were totally dependent upon their families and friends for their well being. In those harsh days, women would often lose their families and have no one to care for them. Dorcas recognized this need, and did what she could to help out. Little did she know her everyday kindness would save her life.

Dorcas fell ill one day, and then soon after she died. The widows who loved Dorcas called for Peter who happened to be in town. Then with many tears, they showed him the wonderful clothes this dear lady had sacrificed to make for them. “And all the widows approached him, weeping and showing him all the robes and clothes that Dorcas had made while she was with them.” Acts 9:39 Peter then sent everyone out of the room, prayed for Dorcas, and told her to get up! God raised her from the dead that very moment! The news of Dorcas’ new life spread throughout the town, and many believed in God.

Sometimes we think God cannot use our little talents. We think our actions do not matter. In God’s kingdom however, everything matters. Because of Dorcas’ simple acts of kindness, many believed in the Lord. As I move through my days, I try and remember this principle. When I see a need, I remember Dorcas and I try and meet the need even when it does not really seem to matter. I can not meet every need that comes my way, but I just try and do what I can, and trust that others will do the same. I may never know the full impact of what I do, but God does. I pray He will use my life to touch others like Dorcas’ life did.